New Zealand Certificate in Fashion
Learn the skills needed to meet fashion industry expectations and explore your design aspirations.
This certificate is a great pathway towards working in the fashion industry or undertaking further study. We’ll introduce you to a range of textiles and the basic skills of fashion design, and you’ll gain entry-level skills in patternmaking and garment construction. We’ll also show you how the industry works and what goes on in a range of workplaces.
At the end of the course, you'll be able to make a range of basic garments and apply these skills in a garment production workshop, under the direction of a designer or production manager.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
A selection process will occur based on application information.
- Where applications exceed places available, you may be waitlisted. The waitlist order will be based on the selection criteria above.
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
Our programme will set you up for fashion industry jobs such as an assistant patternmaker, garment technician, assistant machinist, cutter's assistant, retail merchandising, assistant or production assistant. It's also an ideal stepping stone to further study in this dynamic industry.
Study pathways
As a graduate of this certificate you'll have great basic technical skills. If you want to progress further down the path to becoming a production manager, a stylist, a fashion retailer, or an independent fashion designer, you may wish to advance to our degree programme, the Bachelor of Design (Fashion Technology and Design). If you have good results in the certificate, you can apply by submitting a portfolio workbook and written statement along with your degree application. Staff will advise you on how to put together a strong application.
New Zealand Certificate in Fashion
Learn the skills needed to meet fashion industry expectations and explore your design aspirations.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2630 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | Please enquire |
| Credits | 60 |
| Level | 4 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2630-STRU |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
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